28 rescued as boat develops mechanical trouble

MANILA, Philippines — Twenty-eight people were rescued by members of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) after their motorized boat developed mechanical trouble while sailing in the waters off Glan, Sarangani on Monday.

The PCG station in eastern Sarangani said it received a call at around 5 a.m. from a passenger of M/Bca Lerrie Jie, who said they were stuck in the waters off Barangay Gumasa.

A PCG rescue team found the 26 passengers and two crewmembers onboard and escorted the boat to shore.

The passengers and crewmembers were found to be in good physical condition.

Investigation showed that the Lerrie Jie was headed to Balut Island from Lower Makar in General Santos City when its propeller malfunctioned, causing seawater to enter the hull.